FAQ - Accidental Death & Dismemberment

Q: When does accidental death & dismemberment pay benefits?

Q: What is a "covered accident" under an accidental death and dismemberment policy?

Q: What is the base benefit amount under my loved one's accidental death and dismemberment policy?

Q: What constitutes "dismemberment" under my loved one's policy?

Q: Do I need a lawyer to handle my accidental death and dismemberment insurance dispute?

Q: How much will my lawsuit against the insurance company cost?

Q: Are there any deadlines that I should be concerned about?

Q: When does accidental death & dismemberment pay benefits?

A: Accidental death and dismemberment coverage provides benefits to victims and their family only in the case of an accident. Contrary to life insurance policies, accidental death and dismemberment policies do not cover policyholders who become ill or die due to natural causes.

Q: What is a "covered accident" under an accidental death and dismemberment policy?

A: A "covered accident" that is eligible to pay out benefits must occur while the policyholder is under contract. The covered accident must also qualify as an acceptable injury or death due to accident. Natural sickness or disease not related to an injury, or injuries resulting from medical or surgical treatment are not considered "covered accidents."

Q: What is the base benefit amount under my loved one's accidental death and dismemberment policy?

A: The base benefit amount refers to the amount of benefits your family may collect in the event of accidental death. Depending on the provisions of your policy, family members may be entitled to extra benefit amounts in addition to the base benefit.

Q: What constitutes "dismemberment" under my loved one's policy?

A: For dismemberment claims, a legal "loss" is usually defined as a severed limb, such as a leg or arm, or a severed hand or finger. A "loss" may also be defined through loss of sight, hearing or speech.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to handle my accidental death and dismemberment insurance dispute?

A: If your claim has been denied contact us to determine whether your claim has a chance of winning.

Q: How much will my lawsuit against the insurance company cost?

A: Share Lawyers does not require a down payment or retainer from its accidental death and dismemberment insurance clients. Our lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis, where all costs are covered up front by our firm, and the lawyer collects his or her fee only in the event of a recovery.

Q: Are there any deadlines that I should be concerned about?

A: There are time limits to all disability claims and any delay in proceeding may be subject to a deadline. You should not delay in proceeding with your claim or obtaining legal advice to clarify these deadlines.